Ibadan Stampede: Gov. Makinde Reacts, Says Ex Ooni’s Wife, Others Must Face Trial
Those responsible for the tragic stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children during a funfair at the Islamic High School, Ibadan, on December 18, 2024, will face trial.
Oyo state governor, engineer Seyi Makinde made this known at the annual interfaith service marking the start of 2025, held at the Governor’s Office Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
Makinde emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and preventing such incidents in the future.
Recall that the organizer of the ill-fated event including Prophetess Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, an ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife; and other keyplayers in the event, Agidigbo FM CEO, Oriyomi Hamzat; and Fasasi Abdullahi Babatunde, Principal of Islamic High School.
They are all currently being remanded at the Agodi Custodial Centre, Ibadan.
Makinde addressed criticism over the decision to prosecute the organisers, noting he had received numerous calls urging leniency.
“Thirty-five innocent lives were lost; such a tragedy must never happen again in Oyo State by God’s grace.
“Some people told me this happened in Anambra and FCT, and no one went to jail. But Oyo State is not Anambra, and justice must prevail, regardless of anyone’s status,” Makinde reaffirmed.
He reiterated that the judiciary would handle the matter, stating: “If they think bail can be granted pending trial, that’s within the court’s jurisdiction, but a trial must happen.
“Even if the rest of the country disregards the rule of law, Oyo State will stand firm and uphold it,” Makinde reiterated.
